How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa in 2025: Step-by-Step Application Guide

A Canada Tourist Visa, officially called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows foreign nationals to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. The process for applying has become more digitized in 2025, but attention to detail remains critical. Whether you’re planning to see Niagara Falls, visit relatives, or explore Canadian cities, understanding each requirement and step ensures a smoother application.

Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a Canada Tourist Visa, you must demonstrate to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that you:

• Have a valid passport from your country of residence
• Intend to stay in Canada temporarily (typically up to 6 months)
• Have sufficient funds to cover your stay and return travel
• Have strong ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.)
• Will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• Are in good health (medical exam may be required for some countries)
• May need an invitation letter if visiting friends or family

Inadmissibility Grounds
Applicants can be refused if they have a recent criminal record, misrepresentation in previous applications, or medical inadmissibility.

Single Entry Visa
Allows one entry into Canada. After you leave, you will need a new visa to re-enter unless traveling directly to the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon.

Multiple Entry Visa
Most applicants are issued a multiple entry visa, valid up to 10 years or until the passport expires, allowing multiple visits of up to 6 months at a time.

1. Create an IRCC Account and Choose Application Mode

• Online Application:
  Most applicants are required to apply online via the IRCC Portal.
  If you have accessibility issues, you may be eligible for a paper application, but this is rare in 2025.

2. Gather Required Documents

Mandatory Documents:

• Valid passport (with at least one blank page and validity beyond intended stay)
• Digital photo meeting IRCC specifications
• Completed IMM 5257 (Visitor Visa Application Form)
• Proof of funds (bank statements, pay slips, etc.)
• Proof of ties to home country (employment letter, property documents, family details)
• Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations, or planned activities)
• Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
• Previous travel history (visas, entry/exit stamps)
• Explanation letter (if needed to clarify your purpose or unique circumstances)
• Biometrics receipt (if applicable)

Country-Specific Requirements:
Some countries may require additional forms, translations, or documents, such as a family information form (IMM 5645), marriage certificate, or national identity card. Check your country’s IRCC checklist carefully.

3. Complete the Online Application Form

• Log in to your IRCC account
• Start a new application for a Visitor Visa (TRV)
• Answer eligibility questions accurately; the system will direct you to the right forms
• Fill out the application (IMM 5257):
  • Personal details
  • Purpose of visit
  • Background/declaration questions
• Upload scanned copies of all documents in the specified format (PDF, JPEG, etc.)

4. Pay the Visa Application Fees

• As of 2025, the standard application fee is $100 CAD per person (visitor visa).
• Biometrics fee: $85 CAD per applicant (if biometrics are required).
• Family applications: Maximum total fee capped at $500 for families applying together.
• Payment is made online through credit/debit cards.

5. Submit Your Biometrics

• After submitting your application and paying fees, you’ll get a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).
• Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or biometrics collection point in your country.
• Bring your BIL and passport; biometrics include fingerprints and a digital photo.
• Biometrics are valid for 10 years if previously submitted.

6. Attend an Interview (If Requested)

• Interviews are uncommon, but IRCC may request one if they need clarification.
• If called, prepare to answer questions about your ties to your home country, purpose of visit, and travel plans.

7. Wait for Processing and Decision

Processing Times:

• Vary by country and application volume.
• In 2025, standard processing is 15 to 45 days for most countries, but delays can occur.
• You can check the status of your application through your IRCC account.

Additional Documents:
Sometimes, IRCC may request further documents or medical exams.

8. Receive Passport Request and Submit Passport

• If your visa is approved, you’ll receive a Passport Request Letter.
• Submit your original passport (by mail or in person at the VAC).
• Your visa will be affixed to a page in your passport.

9. Receive Your Passport With Visa

• Once the visa is stamped, you’ll be notified to collect your passport or it will be mailed back.
• Check the visa sticker for errors (name, dates, type) immediately.

Minimum Funds:
There is no strict minimum, but generally, you should show at least CAD $100–150 per day of stay. For a two-week trip, CAD $2,000–3,000 is typical, but the more you show, the stronger your application.

What is Accepted:

• Recent bank statements (last 3–6 months)
• Fixed deposits, investment statements
• Employer’s letter specifying salary
• Tax returns

What is NOT Accepted:

• Unexplained large deposits
• Loans from friends/family for travel

An invitation letter from a Canadian resident (citizen or permanent resident) is not mandatory but is highly recommended if you’re visiting friends or relatives.

Details to Include:

• Full name, address, and status in Canada of inviter
• Your relationship with the inviter
• Purpose and duration of visit
• Inviter’s employment details and a statement of support (if providing accommodation)
• Copy of inviter’s proof of status (PR card, citizenship certificate, etc.)

• Why do you want to visit Canada?
• Who are you visiting? (If applicable)
• What is your occupation in your home country?
• Do you have relatives in Canada?
• How will you support yourself during your trip?
• Do you intend to return to your home country? Why?

Answer honestly, and bring all supporting documents.

Common Reasons for Refusal:

• Insufficient proof of funds
• Weak ties to home country (unemployed, no family/property)
• Vague or suspicious travel plans
• Previous visa overstays or immigration violations
• Missing or inconsistent documents

Expert Tips:

• Provide a well-detailed travel itinerary with clear reasons for each day in Canada.
• Attach strong evidence of your commitments at home (job contract, business ownership, enrolled children, etc.).
• Avoid dummy bookings for flights or hotels. If you use temporary reservations, clearly state so in your cover letter.
• Double-check all forms for errors or omissions.
• Always use up-to-date forms from the IRCC website.

• Duration of Stay: Usually, you’ll be allowed to stay for up to 6 months. The border officer will determine the final length and stamp your passport.
• Extensions: You may apply for a visitor record if you wish to extend your stay, but apply at least 30 days before expiry.
• No Work or Study: A tourist visa does NOT allow you to work or study for longer than 6 months. For this, you must apply for the appropriate permit.

Processing times in 2025 remain unpredictable due to high demand and global events. Always check the latest processing times on the IRCC website. Consider applying at least 3 months before your planned trip.

Conclusion: Preparing for a Successful Canada Tourist Visa Application in 2025

Applying for a Canada Tourist Visa in 2025 requires careful attention to detail, strong documentation, and honest answers. With increased digitalization, most steps are now online, but the fundamental expectations remain unchanged: IRCC wants to be convinced that you will return home after your visit, have enough funds, and are visiting for genuine purposes.

Start gathering your documents early, ensure all forms are complete, and if in doubt, consult a qualified immigration specialist. A well-prepared application is your best chance for a successful Canadian adventure.